During the late 1980s, I was beginning a low-cost journey to the European continent with a friend. Because my friend was exploring starting a postgraduate program in New York, we had planned a 14-day stopover there before heading to London.
We got to the graduate housing, a sizeable ten-floor structure on the UWS called International House. Once we unpacked, we made our way to the canteen, where we picked up meals, took a seat, and engaged in conversation with fellow residents.
Beside me was an Iraqi man enrolled in an engineering program at an Ivy League institution. He asked me what I my profession was, and I shared that I had recently completed my studies with a scientific background and had been working on studies with electron microscopy.
He pointed out that there was an electron microscope unit at the institution – close to the engineering faculty, which was why he was aware of it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was about to fly to Europe and, additionally, I lacked a US visa.
The next day I ventured out, coming back to the dining hall that evening. The man from Iraq walked over to me and informed me that he had organized a discussion for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had gone to the trouble, I went to the meeting – but immediately told my host that I didn’t have a visa, so I was likely not a suitable candidate.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she declared: “We'll handle it. What's your start date?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I worked there for a trio of years. An advantage of the role was that I was granted complimentary education at Columbia, and I seized the chance to finish a graduate degree in global studies.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his identity, but his remarkable generosity altered my destiny in so many ways. I didn't possess the courage or nerve to approach someone at an prestigious college and seek a position. Moreover, I had always wanted to take classes in another country, but lacked the financial means without that free tuition.
What's more, that role at the university led me to a position in Switzerland where I encountered my wonderful partner, with whom I am raising four amazing children. That encounter altered everything. That helpful person redirected my path in life, and I’m eternally thankful.
Tell us about the Most Generous Act a Someone You Didn't Know Has Shown for You?
From making your day to transforming your future, we are interested in random meetings that have stuck with you.
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